Getting Started with the BlackBerry Classic

Whether you are new or experienced with BlackBerry 10, here’s a quick guide to get you started with the BlackBerry Classic!

Step 1 – Insert your SIM and media card

The first step you’ll want to take after unboxing your new BlackBerry Classic is inserting your nano SIM card and media card.

When you have your nano SIM and media card (optional) handy, use the tool that is provided in the BlackBerry Classic box to open the SIM card tray.

To do this, push the tip of the tool, or a paperclip, into the hole that is to the left of SIM on the side of your device. Doing so pops the tray out at which point you can pull it all the way out.

After doing this, with the metal contacts of your nano SIM card facing away from you, place the nano SIM into the tray, then push the tray into the slot. Repeat these steps to insert your media card by inserting the tool, or a paperclip, in the hole to the right of SD along the left side of your device.

Tip: If you don’t have the right SIM card please contact your service provider and ask them for help switching to a nano SIM card. Please avoid using a larger SIM card that has been cut to a smaller size as this may cause your device to not recognize the SIM card. Using a modified SIM card may also result in it getting stuck since the modified SIM card may be thicker than the required nano SIM card.

When you have finished inserting your nano SIM and media card the next step is completing the BlackBerry Classic setup wizard.

Step 2 – Complete the set up wizard

If you haven’t already, turn on your BlackBerry Classic by pressing and holding the power button on the top of your device so you can complete the setup process.

This process guides you through connecting to a Wi-Fi network, setting up a new BlackBerry ID, or signing into your existing BlackBerry ID, as well as showing you several fundamental gestures.

Tip: If you don’t have a BlackBerry ID you’ll be able to create one during the setup process and, in the event you don’t remember your BlackBerry ID password, use the Forgot Password option to reset your BlackBerry ID password. Don’t forgot to confirm your BlackBerry ID, which can help you recover your password in case you ever forget it!

When you have finished the setup wizard, the new and improved Setup app will open automatically.

Within this app you’ll be able to complete the following actions that will help you learn more about your new device and customize everything just the way you like

Find out what’s different about BlackBerry 10

Understand the various gestures used throughout your device

Add your email and social networking accounts

Transfer data from your previous device (See step 3 to learn more!)

Customize your device notifications

Setup BBM so you can connect with family and friends

Set a device password

And more!

When you have finished going through the various options within the Setup App, swipe up from the bottom of the screen to minimize it. You can always access the Setup app in the future by tapping on the Setup icon as well

Step 3 – Transfer data from your previous device

If you are switching from another device, whether it be BlackBerry OS, BlackBerry 10, Android or iPhone, there are several different methods you can use to help transfer data to your new device.

For a visual overview, check out the following videos that guide you through this process. The Setup app on your BlackBerry Classic can also help you do this, just open the Setup app, tap Switching Devices and follow the provided steps.

If you encounter any issues transferring your data, or would like some guidance, stop by the Device Switch board within the BlackBerry Support Community Forums and ask the community.

If you switch from another device don’t forget to perform a security wipe on your old device to remove your personal information. If your previous device was a BlackBerry device, check out our post on how to perform a security wipe.

If you use a different type of device, review the user documentation to learn how to reset it to factory settings and remove your personal information.

Step 4 – Secure your new device and turn on BlackBerry Protect

If you haven’t already set a device password, I cannot stress enough how important this is. Doing so can help prevent unwanted access if you leave your device unattended and, in the event you misplace your device, no one will be able to view your personal information.

To set a device password, complete the following steps:

On the home screen, swipe down from the top of the screen

Tap Settings followed by Security and Privacy

Tap Device Password

Set the Device Password switch to On

Enter your desired password twice

After setting a device password make sure you verify that BlackBerry Protect is enabled on your device by going to Settings followed by BlackBerry Protect.

When enabled, BlackBerry Protect can help you locate, lock, or wipe your device where you are, provided your device is connected to the mobile or Wi-Fi network.

The easiest way to learn more about your new BlackBerry Classic is by opening the Help app, which contains a lot of useful information ranging from tips and tricks to how-to overviews. You can also view, download, or save the user guide for your device by visiting http://docs.blackberry.com.

I would also recommend reviewing BlackBerry Classic how-to demo videos that show the various features and functions offered by your device. These demos can be viewed on your device, computer, or tablet.

Several BlackBerry Training courses are also available – make sure you try these out on your computer, or device to learn more about the BlackBerry Classic and BlackBerry 10 OS version 10.3.1.

Another great way to learn more is by taking the BlackBerry 10 Pop Quiz, which you can find within BlackBerry World. This app offers short quizzes that can help you learn more about your device and it only takes a few minutes to complete each test – it’s the perfect coffee break companion!

To get the BlackBerry 10 Pop Quiz, open BlackBerry World and search for it or click here.

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